by Lesley Warner
I decided that it was about time that I learned to speak
the language of the country I reside in, or at least some semblance of it,
so I went to see Lamai Piwthong at the Pattaya School of Languages (PLC) on
Pattaya Klang. I was given a tour of the school by Ken Babbington, one of
the directors. It’s a large building with 12 classrooms plus a good size
computer room.
Khun
Lamai talking to prospective students
Doctor Iain was right in his article about learning the
Thai language; I seem to have no problem remembering individual words.
Putting the words together and pronouncing them is a different matter, not
to me but to the listener. I understand what I’m saying but no one else
does. I remember being told that if you want to learn something badly enough
you can. I only hope that Lamai has a secret way into my head that I
haven’t found yet.
Is
this sinking in?
Lamai told me that the PLC School is licensed by the
Ministry of Education. They have a full range of basic, intermediate and
advanced language courses, by native speaking tutors covering ten different
countries with the combined ability to teach in nine distinct languages:
English, Thai, Russian, Italian, French, German, Chinese, Japanese and
Spanish, plus what I was looking for, Thai for foreigners. You can learn in
group classes or one to one. I think I’ll try a group class, then at least
I can copy some else’s homework!
The language classes stress speaking, reading and
listening comprehension, starting at basic levels with intermediate and
intensive levels of training. There are also computer courses for those
looking to begin or improve their computer skills; the courses are
certified.
Engrossed
in the computer
They do evening classes and also have special sessions
for the kids. There are also separate courses for specialized professions on
location in the Chonburi area.
The courses are sold in packages depending on the length
of time you have to learn and how comprehensive you need to be in the
language. For more information telephone (038) 421 819 or email [email protected]
